Safety and emergencies in Japan

Calls to 110 (police) and 119 (fire and ambulance) are free from any phone, including mobile phones used on roaming. Operators in large cities can often connect to an interpreter; it helps to state the location clearly, using a nearby landmark, station or the address of the hotel.

The Japan Visitor Hotline, run by the Japan National Tourism Organization, answers in English, Chinese and Korean around the clock and helps in accidents, illness and disasters as well as with general travel questions. The number is worth saving in the phone before arrival.

Japan experiences frequent earthquakes, most too weak to cause damage. The Japan Meteorological Agency's Earthquake Early Warning system sends alerts to mobile phones and broadcasts seconds before strong shaking arrives, with a distinctive alarm tone.

During shaking, the standard advice is to drop, take cover under a sturdy table and hold on, keeping away from windows and objects that may fall; outdoors, move away from buildings, walls and vending machines. Afterwards, follow instructions from staff and announcements. Hotels post evacuation routes in every room.

After a strong earthquake near the coast, tsunami warnings may follow within minutes. Anyone on or near the coast should move immediately to high ground or upper floors of designated tall buildings, without waiting to see the wave; signs show tsunami evacuation routes and the elevation above sea level.

Typhoons and heavy rain bring flooding and landslides, especially in mountainous areas, and disrupt transport. Several volcanoes are active, and the Japan Meteorological Agency issues volcanic alert levels that can close access routes or summit areas.

Summer heat in the lowlands is a serious health risk, and heatstroke alerts are issued on the hottest days. Drinking regularly, resting in the shade and avoiding strenuous activity in the middle of the day are essential. In the mountains, weather can change quickly; hikers should carry proper gear, check routes and conditions, and submit a climbing plan where requested.

Bears live in the forests of Honshu and Hokkaido, and local warnings about bear sightings should be taken seriously on hiking trails and in rural areas.

Medical care is of a high standard, but not all hospitals and clinics have English-speaking staff, and payment is generally expected at the time of treatment. Travel insurance that covers medical treatment and repatriation is strongly advisable; the Japan National Tourism Organization publishes a list of medical institutions that accept foreign patients.

Some common medicines available in Europe, including certain stimulant-containing cold and allergy remedies, are prohibited in Japan, and larger quantities of prescription medicine may require prior permission.

Violent crime against visitors is very rare. The most common problems are touts and overcharging in nightlife districts such as Kabukichō in Shinjuku and Roppongi, where bars may add large surcharges or drinks may be spiked; declining offers from street touts avoids most of this. Pickpocketing is uncommon but occurs in crowds.

Japanese drug laws are strict, and possession of even small amounts of cannabis leads to arrest. Foreign visitors are required to carry their passport at all times.